Innovative Research on Surface Modification of MWCNTs/GNPs Nanocomposites Reinforced with Hybrid Jute/Cotton Fiber

The development of carbon nanotube-based materials has been reported as promising for producing high-performance hybrid fiber-reinforced polymer nanocomposites. However, their dispersion poses a challenge, affecting the mechanical properties of the hybrid nanocomposite reinforced with natural fibers (jute/cotton). This study examines how surface modification of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) influences the mechanical, physical, and morphological properties of polymer nanocomposites reinforced with hybrid natural fiber (jute/cotton).The surface treatment of GNPs and MWCNTs was carried out using SPAN 80, a lipophilic surfactant. Samples with surface-modified and non-modified nanofillers, composed of GNPs and MWCNTs at 0, 0.25, 0.5, 1, and 2 vol%, were fabricated using the vacuum bagging method. The testing results showed that the composite specimen with surface-modified GNPs/MWCNTs exhibited increases of 31.1%, 40.8%, and 33.2% in maximum tensile strength, flexural strength, and hardness value, respectively, compared to those without surface modification.The SEM analysis showed significant agglomeration in samples without surface-modified nanofillers, resulting in reduced strength. The enhancement of mechanical and physical properties in surface-modified samples indicates a strong filler–matrix interaction and effective particle dispersion.